Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: Creamy Skillet of Bold, Cozy Flavor
A simplified, creamy version of the classic Indian butter chicken, made with juicy chicken, warm spices, and a rich tomato-cream sauce—all in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1 tbsp oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
1 cup tomato puree or sauce
¾ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp chili powder (optional)
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
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Season chicken lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Heat oil and 1 tbsp butter in skillet. Sear chicken 3–4 mins per side. Remove.
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Add 2 tbsp butter and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1 min.
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Stir in spices and tomato puree. Simmer 5 mins.
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Add cream and chicken. Simmer 5–7 mins until thick and chicken is cooked through.
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Adjust seasoning and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
Use coconut cream for dairy-free version.
Serve with rice, naan, or roasted veggies.
Leftovers store well for up to 4 days.